Hybrids Invade Full-Size SUVs, a Flagship Luxury Sedan

GM is poised to be the first automaker with hybrid versions of its full-size SUVs with the launch of the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid and GMC Yukon Hybrid late this year. Featuring a V-8 engine teamed with GM's new two-mode hybrid system, the full-size hybrids are expected to return 25 percent better combined fuel economy than their conventionally powered counterparts, according to GM, or about 21 mpg instead of 17 mpg.

Lexus' new LS 600h L full-size luxury sedan also has a V-8 engine working in conjunction with hybrid technology. The all-wheel-drive LS 600h L makes more than 430 horsepower, but Lexus says its fuel economy will best that of any V-8-powered competitor in its class.

Ford, Saturn and Toyota launched redesigned versions of their hybrid SUVs in conjunction with the debut of new gas-only models for 2008. The Escape Hybrid and the Vue Green Line use essentially the same hybrid powertrain technology found in their predecessors, but the Highlander Hybrid features a more powerful hybrid system with an electric-only mode that allows the SUV to travel on battery power alone for short distances at slow speeds. The Mazda Tribute, a sibling of the Ford Escape, adds a hybrid trim level, too.